Reports are emerging that Ali Larijani — one of the most senior figures in Iran’s national security architecture — has been “taken out,” according to Israeli claims. Tehran hasn’t confirmed yet, but historically, when Israel announces high-value eliminations, confirmation often follows.
Larijani isn’t just another official. As Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, he sits at the center of Iran’s intelligence coordination, military policy, and nuclear strategy. He’s also a former nuclear negotiator with the U.S., making him a key node in both diplomacy and security.
Just days ago, he was publicly visible at Quds Day rallies — not hiding, not underground — directly countering claims from figures like Pete Hegseth that Iranian leadership is “in hiding.”
If confirmed, this would mark one of the most significant Iranian leadership losses since Qasem Soleimani — and potentially the second highest-ranking figure targeted in the current escalation.
